Happening Now

Jessica Slaten Appointed Dean of Financial and Administrative Services at Gadsden State Community College

Slaten named to Gadsden State's Executive Cabinet
Jessica Slaten, Dean of Financial and Administrative Services

Gadsden, AL – Gadsden State Community College is proud to announce that Jessica Slaten has been appointed as the newest member of its Executive Cabinet. Slaten, who has been a dedicated member of the Gadsden State family for over 27 years, was recently named the dean of Financial and Administrative Services.

In this newly elevated role, Slaten will continue to provide strategic leadership in directing and coordinating the College’s financial operations. This includes overseeing investments, auxiliary services, and business services. She takes on this position after serving as the director of Financial Services since 2022.

Slaten’s experience with Gadsden State spans more than two decades, beginning in 1998 when she started as an entry-level accountant. Throughout her tenure, she has held various roles, including restricted funds accountant, financial manager, and director of Financial Services.

“I started my career as an entry-level accountant at Gadsden State in 1998, and I knew right away that God placed me right where I needed to be,” Slaten said. “I’ve seen the College evolve over the years, and I’m grateful for the opportunities I’ve had to grow alongside it. As dean, I’m excited to continue building on our team’s strengths and helping Gadsden State fulfill its mission by ensuring that our financial services are aligned with the needs of our students and the institution.”

As part of her vision, Slaten has identified several primary goals, including the development of financial policy and procedure training for budget end users and cross-training opportunities for the Financial Services staff. She is also committed to ongoing professional development to strengthen and unify her team.

In her new role, Slaten will oversee all financial functions at Gadsden State, ensuring that internal accounting and administrative controls are maintained while interpreting and implementing institutional policies. Her leadership will continue to support the College’s mission, particularly in creating a positive financial experience for students and maintaining a healthy institutional environment.

Slaten earned her Bachelor of Science degree in 1996 and Master of Business Administration in 2000 from Jacksonville State University. Additionally, she graduated from the University of Kentucky’s College Business Management Institute in 2008. She is deeply committed to supporting student success at Gadsden State and recognizes the importance of financial services in enhancing the student experience.

“By offering high-quality and accessible services like payment options, the cafeteria, vending, and the bookstore, we can contribute to a satisfying educational experience for all of our students,” she said.

Slaten plans to work closely with departments such as Student Services and Plant Operations to ensure that financial policies align with both student needs and the College’s overarching goals. Her approach emphasizes collaboration, transparency, and professional growth, and she is eager to continue the work done by her predecessors in the role.

As the first female appointed to this position, Slaten expressed pride in building on the foundation laid by previous deans and further elevating the Financial Services Department. She aims to maintain and strengthen the respect and trust earned by the department from both internal and external stakeholders.

Outside of her professional life, Slaten is an active member of her community. She and her husband, Lee, have been married for 27 years and reside in Glencoe. Slaten is a dedicated member of First Baptist Church of Hokes Bluff, where she teaches an adult small group and leads Bible studies for the Women’s Ministry. Additionally, she has served on the United Way allocation panel for 17 years and is currently a member of The Bridge’s Board of Directors.

With her extensive experience and strong leadership, Jessica Slaten is poised to continue making a significant impact at Gadsden State Community College, furthering its mission and strengthening its financial operations for years to come.

 

Slaten named to Gadsden State's Executive Cabinet
Jessica Slaten, Dean of Financial and Administrative Services

Paid Advertisement – Click for More Information

Debbie Hess for BOE
WPD Ad

Paid Advertisement – Click for More Information

Advertise with the Calhoun Journal photo
Julie Borrelli for Probate

Paid Advertisement – Click for More Information

JLM Coms

Paid Advertisement – Click for More Information

McClellan Inn Ad